The Central Otago Destination Advisory Board is set up to help enable and guide the delivery of the Central Otago Destination Management Plan.

Three local tourism operators/owners have put themselves forward for the Operator Representative position.

We are asking you, as local tourism business owners, to vote on who you would like to represent your industry on the Advisory Board.

Introducing the candidates:

Russ Haigh, Lohi Linen

I bring to this opportunity a background in project management, both in the private sector and through our own business ventures. My experience includes overseeing residential renovations and new construction projects, as well as contributing to large-scale infrastructure developments on mine sites in Australia, under FLIFO contracts while based in Cromwell.

In recent years, my wife and I have chosen to return to her hometown of Ranfurly as empty nesters, with a clear purpose: to establish a business that actively contributes to the economic revitalisation and long-term sustainability of the Māniatoto region.

We founded Lohi, a retail store and creative space that currently showcases 38 commission-based products crafted by local makers. Every product aligns with circular economy principles, reflecting our commitment to sustainable practices and community engagement. 
The name "Lohi," derived from the Hawaiian word for slow, embodies our philosophy — encouraging visitors to pause, explore, and experience locally made slow fashion.
To further enhance the visitor experience in Ranfurly, we developed The Thirsty Moa Wine Bar within Lohi. This addition fills a hospitality gap in the area by offering a warm, welcoming environment for travellers, particularly those cycling the Otago Central Rail Trail. The bar provides a space for people to relax, and connect — contributing to the overall positive impression of our town. 

Additionally, we have partnered with CODC to display some of the Eden Hore Central Otago fashion collection and have recently acquired a building adjacent to the historic Ranfurly Railway Station, with the intention of creating a unique visitor attraction.

Joining the Destination Advisory Board would allow me to contribute meaningfully to the future of tourism in our region. Access to the board’s expertise and networks would help further our initiatives, particularly those focused on elevating visitor experiences in the Māniatoto. 

We are committed to growing a sustainable, experience-rich visitor economy. I believe my skills, experience, and on-the-ground perspective would add value to the board’s work, and I welcome the opportunity to collaborate in shaping the future of our region.

Kate Stinchcombe-Gillies, Kaihanu Lodge

As the owner of Kaihanu Lodge - a boutique accommodation offering between Clyde & Alexandra - and member of the Otago Central Rail Trail Business Network I am deeply invested in the successful delivery of the DMP and in ensuring that Central Otago's unique identity and values are championed. 

I also bring 20+ years of experience across the global travel industry working with OTAs, property management companies and travel tech platforms in PR, marketing and leadership roles. Community wise, I'm Chair of The Terrace School PTA and a NZ committee member of the Australia & New Zealand Short Term Rental Association.

I believe that I can support Tourism Central Otago to effectively strike the balance between promotion and management through contributing both in-region and out-of-region expertise and provide a broad tourism industry perspective to ensure that our region’s tourism future is both fruitful and sustainable for all stakeholders.

Thanks

Kate

Yohann Bourdin, Parkside Farm

I'm Yohann from Parkside Farm, located in the Ida Valley. We are an Agri-tourism business as we focus on true farm experience and premium glamping stays. Whilst we are new to the valley, I've spent over the last decades in Wanaka, dealing with high-end tourism and event management. Through this wealth of knowledge, I would like to bring more to the region and helping other operators to have their say when it comes to the direction of tourism in Central Otago.